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Draft:Sam Pha

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Sam Pha

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Sam Kinuli Pha (born April 23, 2000) is a Canadian professional basketball player from Vancouver, British Columbia. Known for his perseverance through discrimination and hardships, he excelled in high school basketball in Vancouver, leading his team to a provincial championship and earning a place on a top AAU prep team. He currently plays in the NBA G League for the Portland Trail Blazers' affiliate team.

Sam Pha
No. 5 – Portland Trail Blazers G League affiliate
PositionShooting guard / Small forward
LeagueNBA G League
Personal information
BornApril 23 2000
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
NationalityCanadian, Japanese
Listed height6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
Listed weight221 lb (100 kg)
Career information
High schoolBurnaby South Rebels (Vancouver, British Columbia)
College
  • Simon Fraser University
  • Syracuse University
NBA draft2023: undrafted
Playing career2023–present
Career history
2024–presentMemphis Grizzlies' G League affiliate
Portland Trailblazers' G League affiliate

Early Life and Background

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Sam Pha was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Growing up, he faced significant discrimination and social hardships. Despite these challenges, Pha showed an early passion for basketball and remained committed to the sport.

High School Career

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Pha attended Burnaby South Highschool in Vancouver, where he emerged as one of the province's top basketball talents. In his senior year, he led his team to victory in the provincial high school championship, solidifying his reputation as one of British Columbia’s best players. His performance earned him a spot on an elite AAU prep team, drawing attention from college scouts.

College Career

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Following high school, Pha received a scholarship to play at a Division II basketball school in Vancouver, Simon Fraser University. After a successful first year, averaging about 10 points and 7 rebounds, he transferred to Syracuse University on a full scholarship. Over three years, Pha averaged almost 13 points and 9 rebounds, He became known for his defensive prowess and dedication, and most prominently his rebounding though he was undersized. He was a big contributor helping his team in multiple NCAA tournaments.

Professional Career

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In October 2024, Pha was selected in the NBA G League Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies' affiliate team. Shortly after, he joined the Portland Trail Blazers’ G League affiliate, where he continues to develop his skills and pursue his goal of playing in the NBA.

Personal Life

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Sam Pha’s family relocated to Cambridge, Ontario. He had to make the tough decision to move away from his biggest supporter, His brother - Sai Pha-. But he ultimately chose to remain in Vancouver with his grandparents to continue pursuing his basketball career.

Career Statistics

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Season Team League Games Points per Game Assists per Game Rebounds per Game
College Freshman Simon Fraser University Division II 30 10.5 3.2 7.4
Sophomore-Senior Syracuse University NCAA 85 12.8 4.0 8.7
2023-24 Memphis Grizzlies G League NBA G League 6 3.2 1.7 7.6
2024-25 Portland Trail Blazers G League NBA G League 32 8.5 3.2 8.3

Category:Canadian basketball players Category:People from Vancouver Category:Living people Category:Syracuse Orange men's basketball players Category:Portland Trail Blazers G League players

References

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